Chapter 13
Zhuge Liang rolled over and pulled the woman closer to him, nuzzling at her neck. She gave a small purr and snuggled closer. This was the way life should be, a soft delicious smelling woman in his arms, and a whole two weeks away from his wife.
Not that he didn't like his wife. She was smart, charming, and strong. He traced the curve of the woman's breast. It was just that he could never quite be what she wanted him to be. Every since he had past her test all she had seen was Zhuge Liang, the Sleeping Dragon, not Zhuge Liang, the man.
How was a man supposed to live up to a title of a master strategist in the bedroom? More often than not he and Yue Ying quickly got things out of the way. She wound his nerves to no end looking at him as though he was perfect. And if it wasn't her, than it was Jiang Wei or Liu Bei. Sometimes it was wonderful to just be away from the others without anyone expecting anything from him.
Silently, he wished that the others could treat him more like the woman in his arms. Mei Lin treated him as though he was any other man. It was the best experience of his life. He would never give her up.
Things would only get better with them alone for a week. The following week when he returned with Lady Sun, things would have to be more restrained, but for now he was free to do as he desired, as long as his wife did not find out. After all, Yue Ying was very protective over anything she consider 'hers'.
He was a strategist though. Yue Ying was completely in the dark. Lady Yang did not know her current bodyguard's whereabouts, but her father did. With a smile he slide a hand lower along the girl's body. Perhaps he would ask the man if he could keep Mei Lin indefinitely? After all, didn't most of the men in camp have more than one wife? She would be a welcome change from Yue Ying's caution.
Mei Lin awoke with a start of surprise. For a moment her chocolate eyes went wide, then she took his hand in hers. "Are you interested in some morning exercise? Or is there something else you're after?" She winked.
With a laugh, he pulled the woman over on top of him. Yes, it was lovely to be away from the others.
**
Huang Zhong gave a small gasp as pain raced along his nerve ends. His age was slowly catching up with him, especially in the chill morning air of a thin tent. Not that it mattered. He fully expected to die on the battlefield in a blaze of glory. But he wouldn't even consider doing anything foolish, not until his charge was fully able to handle his death. His charge? He shook his head. What a way to phrase the man that he considered a son and comrade.
He left the tent, hoping to find the man in question. Word had reached him that Wei Yan had not trained his men once since joining the Shu army. It was inexcusable. Huang Zhong knew the young man kept barriers around him that made it harder for him to get to know people, but usually it didn't extend to him training troops.
Ah! There was the man in question. He stopped in front of the masked general's back. "Wei Yan, a word."
The younger general grunted and turned to him.
Huang Zhong felt his jaw flap open. Who was crazy enough to leave Wei Yan with a child? "What is that doing here?"
The child in question reached out, swiping at Wei Yan's mask, pushing it slightly off. The younger general quickly pushed it back in place. "This Liu Shan."
His son had a way with the obvious. "I know that," he snapped. "Why exactly is he with you?"
Wei Yan shrugged. The child in his hands gave a small noise, then burped up a chucky milk substance. The general sighed and wiped at it. "Jiang Wei punished. Him go clean. Me take care baby."
A howl of laughter flew out of Huang Zhong as he watched the masked general put the baby over his shoulder and pat its back. There was a resounding burp. "So you've been watching this whelp?"
Wei Yan nodded. The corners of his mouth slide down into a frown. "Yes."
"Well at least you can use the experience once you're older and married. After all a lady sometimes wants help with a baby." He couldn't keep the smile from his face.
Wei Yan gave a soft growl of disapproval.
"Oh well, now why haven't you been practicing with your men recently? They've been complaining."
"Baby cry. Baby cry often. No can train when baby cry."
"Ah. Well that does explain a lot." he stroked his beard, taking in the forlorn look on his young prodigies face. "I might be persuaded to take care of the whelp, provided you can do one little thing for me."
Wei Yan looked up at the sky, then back at his mentor. "What?"
"Try practicing your men with bows more often."
The masked general rolled his eyes heavenward.
"Stop that. It would come in handle if they could at least hit the broad side of Xu Zhu." He placed a hand on the masked general's shoulder. "You never know when it will come in handy child."
With a long-suffering sigh, Wei Yan nodded and handed the child to him. "We practice later on bow."
"And I'll be watching to make sure that you actually do it."
Wei Yan nodded, bowed, then took off at a run towards his small group of troops. Training was as close as one could get to war sometimes.
**
Sun Shang Xiang paced in her cabin. Who did those idiots think they were fooling? Like she wouldn't notice the newest members of her staff? Even if she did - how could she not notice that the leg hairs on both the 'women' were long enough to form a nice braid of rope?
Men!
And to think these were the men who were supposed to be coming up with strategies to protect the kingdom.
She rubbed at her temples. Surely none of the other kingdoms had to put up with this. What would her life be like without interfering men with no brains?
Heavenly.
She could practice all day long, go into battle, and work on buying more weapons.
Musing, she sat down at a small table and awaited the Qiaos. Maybe Da would have a plan? She would wait. In the meantime, it was best to do something she had always wanted to do. Picking up a small knife she began cutting at her hair. If some man was going to try to marry her, then he better like living with someone who looked more like a boy than a woman!
**
Yue Ying rubbed at the injured hand. How was she to know that there could be no more pressure applied before the ox would break? It was honestly Jiang Wei's fault. It was a good thing that he was in her husband's favor or she would have made the young man's life a hell on earth.
Flexing her hand, she wove her way through the camp. It would be nice if diner were ready. But considering what the Shu army was getting, the only safe food was what she cooked herself. She gave a shudder at the thought of eating that nasty stew which was forced upon the Shu troops. No wonder they had lost a battle recently! Who could fight on lumpy vegetable stew and burned rice? Not many people. Still the thought of cooking was not something that she wanted to dwell on right now, especially considering that soon she would be knee deep in her kitchen anyhow. No, she wanted to unwind a bit.
She was walking past the main gate when she saw a rider approach. With a flourish of hooves, a young lady came to a halt in front of her riding Ma Chao's pride and joy. The woman swung her head back, throwing her raven hair out of her face. "Lady Yue Ying, how are you?"
Despite the ache of her hand, that seemed to sap her very reserves, Yue Ying felt a smile cross her lips. "It's been fine. How was your shopping expedition Lady Yang?"
"Wonderful! I found the most beautiful piece of silk! You must come over and see it. It has the prettiest pattern of a forest. It's bound to look excellent on my father." The woman slid to the ground from off the horse.
"Well it's always good to make things for one's father." I wonder how does one make a pattern? "And how many hours did it take for you to find this beautiful piece of silk?"
"Oh, not very long, only five." The woman examined the nails on her right hand, keeping hold of the horse with her other. The smile that flooded her face was a little too fake.
The female general shook her head. "And did your father make you take an escort?"
"Why, of course. He made me take the new bodyguards he hired for me as well as Ma Chao." The woman gave her a look of wide-eyed innocence.
Yue Ying shook her head, trying to contain a giggle. Everyone knew of the tortures that Lady Yang enjoyed infecting on the poor horse general. "So, how soon will he be able to attempt to move this time?"
The woman smiled. "He won't be in the next battle, that's for certain. So there's no worry of him dying anytime soon. I think I might have overdid it." Her brows furrowed in worry. "But if he tries to pick up that stupid spear or ride this smelly horse-" She made a smashing motion with her hand. The horse neighed as though agreeing whole-heartedly.
Yue Ying moved her hand up to stifled the giggle. If only Ma Chao could understand that his lady love was scared of losing him in battle as well as completely jealous of his horse and spear! She had tried for months to explain it to him, but eventually had given up. The young man would learn on his own, or not at all.
Not able to contain it anymore she laughed. "So where are your bodyguards?"
"Oh, all of them went back to their tents except one. Mei Lin said she needed to talk to someone in town, and stayed there."
Yue Ying rolled her eyes. "I'm not shocked at that one. She will lead your other bodyguards astray Lady Yang."
"But she is the best fighter." Lady Yang frowned. "Why don't you like her?"
The general ran her fingers through her hair. "My father taught me to beware women who tended to use the fact that they are of the gentler sex to get what they want."
"Oh Yue Ying, you know my father needed a concubine anyhow. Is not Mei Lin beautiful and a good fighter? What better could I ask for in a new mother? And she's the one who came up with this little plot to keep Ma Chao's attention."
Now that was a tid bit of new information. "Why did she suggest you do that?"
"She says men get bored easily and move on. You should heed some of her advice."
"I don't think I need help-"
"I know you don't need my help, but I have to tell you for your own good. If you don't get Zhuge Liang's attention soon then he'll start talking about concubines and other wives! Get your husband under control while there's still time!"
"But my husband and I have a understanding. I know he doesn't love me. We are to be equals."
"You'll never be equals if he only thinks of you as a warrior." The dull thunder of horses' hooves brought Lady Yang to a halt. "Oh dear, I was hoping he wouldn't discover that I took his horse until later. I really must be going" Giving a hasty bow she began running, the horse following behind, nipping at her hair.
Yue Ying shook her head. And people think strategists are complicated.
Before she could move a horse galloped up, stopping scant inches from her its hooves forcing dirt into a cloud in the air. Gasping for breath she bent double.
"Where is she?!" Ma Chao looked as though he had just came from battle. Yes, his armor was gone, but that same blaze in his eyes that he carried in battle was lit now.
"I-"
"She was here. I see my horse's hoof marks. Where did she go Yue Ying?" He was breathing hard, his whole body shaking with a barely controlled rage.
She had only seen him like this once, when Cao Cao had been visible on the far side of a battlefield. There was no stopping him when he reached this point. Silently, she pointed in the direction that Lady Yang had gone.
Ma Chao nodded once, his whole essence focused on the chase, and rode off.
Shaking, Yue Ying leaned against the gate. Heaven help her if she ever made a man that mad at her. There was no doubt that Ma Chao would not hurt the woman, but perhaps he would finally talk to her about her foolish tendencies to go off alone? After all, she certainly wasn't a fighter able to defend herself. Yue Ying shook her head and started back towards her tent. Best not to think of it. It was probably time for her to begin dinner, if she wanted anything edible before nightfall.
A roar of a crowd stopped her. What could possibly be going on so close to the end of the day? Following her ear, she quickly ended up near the training grounds. What could possibly be causing all the noise? Looking around she saw a unit of men attacking a single man.
"Ho! How goes it Lady Yue Ying."
She turned to see Huang Zhong leaning against a wooden railing. A small bundle lay wrapped up and facing the arena beside him.
"It goes well. What's all the noise over?"
A twinkle emerged in the man's eyes. "Wei Yan is finally training some of his troops. It was about time too."
Yue Ying frowned. Wasn't Wei Yan supposed to be watching Liu Shan? That had been her husband's latest plan. "Isn't he watching Liu Bei's son?"
"Oh, you mean this?" Before she could stop him, the man leaned over, picked up the bundle, and deposited it in her arms.
Yue Ying felt a scream building inside of her.
"I told him I would watch the child long enough for him to train his troops." His eyes grew thoughtful. "Sometimes he seems to forget anything other than battle. It affects his personality if he doesn't get a chance to train every few days, believe me young lady, an angry Wei Yan is something you never want to see."
Yue Ying blinked, and tried to focus on keeping her own terror under control. Come on Ying. Don't scream. Relax. It's just a baby. You could beat it up in a second. Closing her eyes, she took several deep-calming breaths. Slowly her irregular heartbeat calmed down. She was finally able to focus her attention back on the general.
"Yes, I bet an angry Wei Yan is something I would never want to see."
"Of course not." The general's eyes wandered back to the arena. "Well look at that. It appears one of the newer troops just might become good in time."
Yue Ying watched as one lone footman held off four other members of what appeared to be his troop. He ducked a sword swing, but was almost impelled on a spear. "What are they doing? That last move could have seriously hurt him!"
"Wei Yan has them practicing against each other. First blood leaves to go back about their business. Don't agree with the boy, but he claims that since their enemies won't give them mercy on the battlefield, then their allies shouldn't in training. So far he's been lucky and no one has been hurt." Huang Zhong shrugged. "It's always one of the last thing he does. But that boy promised me that he would train his men today with the bow. He's not a bad shot himself, when I can get him to practice."
Wei Yan? A Boy? Yue Ying suppressed her snort. If Huang Zhong considered him a boy, she would hate to see what he considered a full-grown man. "I see." She feigned a trip. The general quickly reached out to stead her and she transplanted the child into his arms. "Oh thank you for holding him. I admit I feel a little weak." She leaned against the wooden fence, curling both hands around the topmost rail.
"Whelps aren't that bad, are they?"
"I beg your pardon?"
"You and the boy both seem to fear babies."
"Wei Yan's scared of children?" Her voice held just a tint of amusement.
Huang Zhong shrugged. "Many warriors fear children. I'm not that surprised that you do as well."
"But I'm a woman." Yue Ying gasped. Open mouth, insert foot.
The general gave a laugh so hearty that it captivated the troops attention. To a man, each one turned in their direction. Wei Yan, who had been walking around, advising the troops, and helping them with their various formations, glared at the older general, then stomped over.
"You stay. You quiet."
Huang Zhong wiped tears off his cheeks. "You would laugh too Boy if you heard what little Yue Ying just said." The man chuckled. "She said she was a woman!" He dug one elbow into the masked general's side. "As though we would doubt it or miss it!" The general ruffled the top of her hair, as though she were a favorite pet dog. "Such a pretty little thing."
"If I slice him up into little pieces will anyone care?" Yue Ying felt her hands begin to shake. She was not a pretty little thing.
Wei Yan turned to her. His eyes traveled across the length of her body. Goosebumps danced along her spine. The dark green intense orbs finally sought her own. For a moment she was breathless. A solemn expression on his face, the masked general winked at her. Before she could take a step back, he slapped the helmet on his mentor's head. It slid to the side, covering the older general's eyes.
"You offend. Apologize."
Huang Zhong continued to chuckle. "Child, if you had just heard the way that she-"
Wei Yan rolled his eyes towards the heaven. "Bet funny. But she mad. She saved you. Be nice."
Huang Zhong wiped away the last of the tears. "Of course of course." A sparkle of mischief entered his eyes. "But I thought that I was the one the ladies adored?" He gave Wei Yan a pat on the head then bowed to Yue Ying. "I am dreadfully sorry, my lady. I should know better than to upset a beautiful lady like yourself. Please accept my humble apologizes. As a token of my esteem, I invite you to dinner tonight." His eyes twinkling he patted her back. "Let me tell you about the time that Wei Yan almost drowned in five inches of water."
Wei Yan gave a soft growl.
"Oh come now child. I promise not to make you look too bad. And this way I can be properly introduced to the lady."
Seeing no other avenue she could take without insulting the man, Yue Ying accepted his arm and walked away with him. Surely someone as old as Huang Zhong would know how to cook?
**
He had known he would have nightmares. For hours he had avoided sleep, finally he lay on the mat. It was time to face the fear like a man instead of hiding. With a sigh he closed his eyes and was quickly engulfed right where he had left off before.
The auction was not going well. It looked as though he would start down the lonely road to working on a farm. Guan Yu was physically restraining Huang Zhong. Zhao Yun was talking quietly to Zhuge Liang who held tightly onto a large sack brimming with gold.
"Ten gold is the finally offer?" There was absolute silence.
Didn't he matter to anyone besides the old man?
"Going once."
He guessed not.
"Going twice."
No one would look him in the eye.
"Sol-"
A flash of light erupted from the center of the sky. All those gathered turned to watch the newest arrival. A woman emerged from a fetal position within, eerie luminous wings trailing silvery white feathers, which slowed her descent to the ground. She landed, one hand stretched in front of her. "Gentlemen. Stop." She turned a sweet smile on all of them. "Please allow me to converse with my husband before the finally bid."
"Darling, this is-"
The woman looped her arm through her husband's. Zhuge Liang's lip seemed to stick a mile out as he was pulled gently off to the side. A solid blue ball blazed into life, seeming to engulf them for long moments. When it finally disappeared the woman had a smirk plastered on her face, while her husband slammed the huge sack of gold down on the table. "Damn it. All the gold for that thing you call a man."
As the men stood around arguing over the last little details, the woman walked over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Come. You are free, Wei Yan."
The words rang in his head. Free. Could one such as he ever be free?
With a soft smile she held her arms out to him. The grim despair that had engulfed him earlier rolled away. Didn't he know this woman?
Her hands quickly untied the ropes that bound him. "Isn't that better? I think we should start with some willow bark tea. That should dull some of the pain. Then we can start with the bandages. I'm not sure how much I can fix though, but I'll give it a shot." The woman smiled again.
Wei Yan blinked, his brow furrowing in concentration. He knew that smiling face, but from where? In the dream it did not seem to matter so much. All he knew was that that if he could just be near the angelic vision than just maybe he would finally find peace.
Reaching out his hand for her, he heard the woman call his name. The first time it was soft and sweet, but the second time, her face twisted into one of horror. He awoke with a start.
"Wei Yan, didn't you hear me? We're being attacked! Get up!"
He blinked up at the woman. It was the angel from the dream. She didn't seem to be in an angelic mood though. Not to mention that unfortunately, if he remembered correctly the 'angel' had a husband who happened to hate every little thing about him. The thought of Zhuge Liang ever paying anything to buy him was hilarious.
"Come on get your armor -" The blanket that covered him was whipped off.
"I-I-I" Yue Ying looked helplessly around the room, "You're nude!"
He coupled a grunt with a shrug. How could someone possibly sleep in clothes?
Her face blushed an illuminating shade of red. Shaking her head, she shook an index finger in his face. "Get your armor on! The other side of camp is being attacked. I'm going to see who I can help now." With that she ran out of his tent.
Was that woman ever not in a rush? He had been hoping to get some time to talk to her all week, but her husband had always had her busy with preparations for the wedding. After all, didn't all women know secrets about babies? With a sigh he grabbed at his armor and started putting it on. Never mind. He could try talking to her later again. Battle was at hand! At least that was easy to understand. With any luck, he could find an interesting bone to add to his collection tonight.
**
Sima Yi looked around at the troops fighting his. Where was Mei Lin? So far she had not arrived. He rubbed at his head. He had told the woman to become a confidant of Zhuge Liang, and to stick close to him. Perhaps she had left with his entourage? With a sigh Sima Yi called out to his troops. "I want Liu Bei's son brought to me alive. Any who stand in our way shall be eliminated.
**
Yue Ying ran up just in time to have a soldier thrown at her, at least she thought it was a soldier. Throwing herself to the side she managed to escape slamming into the airborne body. Flipping to her feet, she quickly accessed the scene. She could just see Jiang Wei ringed in by around twenty soldiers. They each were taking turns jabbing in his direction, slowly wearing down his defenses, and considering the clothing he wore, only his abilities with his weapon were keeping the soldiers at bay. She really needed to give the generals of Shu a long talk in the near future about why one should wear clothing to sleep. She shoved the thought away. There would be time later to talk to the males about nudity. Right now Jiang Wei needed her help. As she watched, one soldier scored a long thin red scratch across his back.
"Bastards." She raced up to the back of one soldier and sliced at his back. He gave a cry, then fell to the ground.
"Yue Ying!" Jiang Wei slammed his trident up and through another opponent, and quickly turned in a circle, seeing who would attack next. "Get back!"
"I'm coming. Hold on."
"No!" Jiang Wei turned, and for a second they made eye contact. "They're after Liu Shan." He then turned and began slicing his way through the soldiers. "I will keep them from entering my tent to get the child! Go get help!"
The unspoken message in the brief eye contact was clear. Get Liu Shan from Wei Yan's tent, away from danger, and damn the consequences. With a nod, she turned and left the general, a small prayer for Jiang Wei's safety on her lips.
Gingivere: It finally let you submit. Yes, Lu Xun in a dress. He'll be in a the next chapter. Poor baby. The girls are gonna make him stay in the dress the whole time. Auctioning Wei Yan made sense at the time. Err or it did I swear! The baby is evil. Not to mention it grows up and is silly/stupid. Good luck with the whole art deal!
Girl-who-sings-the-blues: You like the pairing? YEA! That makes what? Three of us total. I'm afraid that as far as I know I'm the only one who hooks him up with Yue Ying. Every other story hooks him up with Zhu Rong. Then again I do have it in the works to hook him up with a new DW girl in each story so let us see who I fix him up with next.
Zhuge Liang rolled over and pulled the woman closer to him, nuzzling at her neck. She gave a small purr and snuggled closer. This was the way life should be, a soft delicious smelling woman in his arms, and a whole two weeks away from his wife.
Not that he didn't like his wife. She was smart, charming, and strong. He traced the curve of the woman's breast. It was just that he could never quite be what she wanted him to be. Every since he had past her test all she had seen was Zhuge Liang, the Sleeping Dragon, not Zhuge Liang, the man.
How was a man supposed to live up to a title of a master strategist in the bedroom? More often than not he and Yue Ying quickly got things out of the way. She wound his nerves to no end looking at him as though he was perfect. And if it wasn't her, than it was Jiang Wei or Liu Bei. Sometimes it was wonderful to just be away from the others without anyone expecting anything from him.
Silently, he wished that the others could treat him more like the woman in his arms. Mei Lin treated him as though he was any other man. It was the best experience of his life. He would never give her up.
Things would only get better with them alone for a week. The following week when he returned with Lady Sun, things would have to be more restrained, but for now he was free to do as he desired, as long as his wife did not find out. After all, Yue Ying was very protective over anything she consider 'hers'.
He was a strategist though. Yue Ying was completely in the dark. Lady Yang did not know her current bodyguard's whereabouts, but her father did. With a smile he slide a hand lower along the girl's body. Perhaps he would ask the man if he could keep Mei Lin indefinitely? After all, didn't most of the men in camp have more than one wife? She would be a welcome change from Yue Ying's caution.
Mei Lin awoke with a start of surprise. For a moment her chocolate eyes went wide, then she took his hand in hers. "Are you interested in some morning exercise? Or is there something else you're after?" She winked.
With a laugh, he pulled the woman over on top of him. Yes, it was lovely to be away from the others.
**
Huang Zhong gave a small gasp as pain raced along his nerve ends. His age was slowly catching up with him, especially in the chill morning air of a thin tent. Not that it mattered. He fully expected to die on the battlefield in a blaze of glory. But he wouldn't even consider doing anything foolish, not until his charge was fully able to handle his death. His charge? He shook his head. What a way to phrase the man that he considered a son and comrade.
He left the tent, hoping to find the man in question. Word had reached him that Wei Yan had not trained his men once since joining the Shu army. It was inexcusable. Huang Zhong knew the young man kept barriers around him that made it harder for him to get to know people, but usually it didn't extend to him training troops.
Ah! There was the man in question. He stopped in front of the masked general's back. "Wei Yan, a word."
The younger general grunted and turned to him.
Huang Zhong felt his jaw flap open. Who was crazy enough to leave Wei Yan with a child? "What is that doing here?"
The child in question reached out, swiping at Wei Yan's mask, pushing it slightly off. The younger general quickly pushed it back in place. "This Liu Shan."
His son had a way with the obvious. "I know that," he snapped. "Why exactly is he with you?"
Wei Yan shrugged. The child in his hands gave a small noise, then burped up a chucky milk substance. The general sighed and wiped at it. "Jiang Wei punished. Him go clean. Me take care baby."
A howl of laughter flew out of Huang Zhong as he watched the masked general put the baby over his shoulder and pat its back. There was a resounding burp. "So you've been watching this whelp?"
Wei Yan nodded. The corners of his mouth slide down into a frown. "Yes."
"Well at least you can use the experience once you're older and married. After all a lady sometimes wants help with a baby." He couldn't keep the smile from his face.
Wei Yan gave a soft growl of disapproval.
"Oh well, now why haven't you been practicing with your men recently? They've been complaining."
"Baby cry. Baby cry often. No can train when baby cry."
"Ah. Well that does explain a lot." he stroked his beard, taking in the forlorn look on his young prodigies face. "I might be persuaded to take care of the whelp, provided you can do one little thing for me."
Wei Yan looked up at the sky, then back at his mentor. "What?"
"Try practicing your men with bows more often."
The masked general rolled his eyes heavenward.
"Stop that. It would come in handle if they could at least hit the broad side of Xu Zhu." He placed a hand on the masked general's shoulder. "You never know when it will come in handy child."
With a long-suffering sigh, Wei Yan nodded and handed the child to him. "We practice later on bow."
"And I'll be watching to make sure that you actually do it."
Wei Yan nodded, bowed, then took off at a run towards his small group of troops. Training was as close as one could get to war sometimes.
**
Sun Shang Xiang paced in her cabin. Who did those idiots think they were fooling? Like she wouldn't notice the newest members of her staff? Even if she did - how could she not notice that the leg hairs on both the 'women' were long enough to form a nice braid of rope?
Men!
And to think these were the men who were supposed to be coming up with strategies to protect the kingdom.
She rubbed at her temples. Surely none of the other kingdoms had to put up with this. What would her life be like without interfering men with no brains?
Heavenly.
She could practice all day long, go into battle, and work on buying more weapons.
Musing, she sat down at a small table and awaited the Qiaos. Maybe Da would have a plan? She would wait. In the meantime, it was best to do something she had always wanted to do. Picking up a small knife she began cutting at her hair. If some man was going to try to marry her, then he better like living with someone who looked more like a boy than a woman!
**
Yue Ying rubbed at the injured hand. How was she to know that there could be no more pressure applied before the ox would break? It was honestly Jiang Wei's fault. It was a good thing that he was in her husband's favor or she would have made the young man's life a hell on earth.
Flexing her hand, she wove her way through the camp. It would be nice if diner were ready. But considering what the Shu army was getting, the only safe food was what she cooked herself. She gave a shudder at the thought of eating that nasty stew which was forced upon the Shu troops. No wonder they had lost a battle recently! Who could fight on lumpy vegetable stew and burned rice? Not many people. Still the thought of cooking was not something that she wanted to dwell on right now, especially considering that soon she would be knee deep in her kitchen anyhow. No, she wanted to unwind a bit.
She was walking past the main gate when she saw a rider approach. With a flourish of hooves, a young lady came to a halt in front of her riding Ma Chao's pride and joy. The woman swung her head back, throwing her raven hair out of her face. "Lady Yue Ying, how are you?"
Despite the ache of her hand, that seemed to sap her very reserves, Yue Ying felt a smile cross her lips. "It's been fine. How was your shopping expedition Lady Yang?"
"Wonderful! I found the most beautiful piece of silk! You must come over and see it. It has the prettiest pattern of a forest. It's bound to look excellent on my father." The woman slid to the ground from off the horse.
"Well it's always good to make things for one's father." I wonder how does one make a pattern? "And how many hours did it take for you to find this beautiful piece of silk?"
"Oh, not very long, only five." The woman examined the nails on her right hand, keeping hold of the horse with her other. The smile that flooded her face was a little too fake.
The female general shook her head. "And did your father make you take an escort?"
"Why, of course. He made me take the new bodyguards he hired for me as well as Ma Chao." The woman gave her a look of wide-eyed innocence.
Yue Ying shook her head, trying to contain a giggle. Everyone knew of the tortures that Lady Yang enjoyed infecting on the poor horse general. "So, how soon will he be able to attempt to move this time?"
The woman smiled. "He won't be in the next battle, that's for certain. So there's no worry of him dying anytime soon. I think I might have overdid it." Her brows furrowed in worry. "But if he tries to pick up that stupid spear or ride this smelly horse-" She made a smashing motion with her hand. The horse neighed as though agreeing whole-heartedly.
Yue Ying moved her hand up to stifled the giggle. If only Ma Chao could understand that his lady love was scared of losing him in battle as well as completely jealous of his horse and spear! She had tried for months to explain it to him, but eventually had given up. The young man would learn on his own, or not at all.
Not able to contain it anymore she laughed. "So where are your bodyguards?"
"Oh, all of them went back to their tents except one. Mei Lin said she needed to talk to someone in town, and stayed there."
Yue Ying rolled her eyes. "I'm not shocked at that one. She will lead your other bodyguards astray Lady Yang."
"But she is the best fighter." Lady Yang frowned. "Why don't you like her?"
The general ran her fingers through her hair. "My father taught me to beware women who tended to use the fact that they are of the gentler sex to get what they want."
"Oh Yue Ying, you know my father needed a concubine anyhow. Is not Mei Lin beautiful and a good fighter? What better could I ask for in a new mother? And she's the one who came up with this little plot to keep Ma Chao's attention."
Now that was a tid bit of new information. "Why did she suggest you do that?"
"She says men get bored easily and move on. You should heed some of her advice."
"I don't think I need help-"
"I know you don't need my help, but I have to tell you for your own good. If you don't get Zhuge Liang's attention soon then he'll start talking about concubines and other wives! Get your husband under control while there's still time!"
"But my husband and I have a understanding. I know he doesn't love me. We are to be equals."
"You'll never be equals if he only thinks of you as a warrior." The dull thunder of horses' hooves brought Lady Yang to a halt. "Oh dear, I was hoping he wouldn't discover that I took his horse until later. I really must be going" Giving a hasty bow she began running, the horse following behind, nipping at her hair.
Yue Ying shook her head. And people think strategists are complicated.
Before she could move a horse galloped up, stopping scant inches from her its hooves forcing dirt into a cloud in the air. Gasping for breath she bent double.
"Where is she?!" Ma Chao looked as though he had just came from battle. Yes, his armor was gone, but that same blaze in his eyes that he carried in battle was lit now.
"I-"
"She was here. I see my horse's hoof marks. Where did she go Yue Ying?" He was breathing hard, his whole body shaking with a barely controlled rage.
She had only seen him like this once, when Cao Cao had been visible on the far side of a battlefield. There was no stopping him when he reached this point. Silently, she pointed in the direction that Lady Yang had gone.
Ma Chao nodded once, his whole essence focused on the chase, and rode off.
Shaking, Yue Ying leaned against the gate. Heaven help her if she ever made a man that mad at her. There was no doubt that Ma Chao would not hurt the woman, but perhaps he would finally talk to her about her foolish tendencies to go off alone? After all, she certainly wasn't a fighter able to defend herself. Yue Ying shook her head and started back towards her tent. Best not to think of it. It was probably time for her to begin dinner, if she wanted anything edible before nightfall.
A roar of a crowd stopped her. What could possibly be going on so close to the end of the day? Following her ear, she quickly ended up near the training grounds. What could possibly be causing all the noise? Looking around she saw a unit of men attacking a single man.
"Ho! How goes it Lady Yue Ying."
She turned to see Huang Zhong leaning against a wooden railing. A small bundle lay wrapped up and facing the arena beside him.
"It goes well. What's all the noise over?"
A twinkle emerged in the man's eyes. "Wei Yan is finally training some of his troops. It was about time too."
Yue Ying frowned. Wasn't Wei Yan supposed to be watching Liu Shan? That had been her husband's latest plan. "Isn't he watching Liu Bei's son?"
"Oh, you mean this?" Before she could stop him, the man leaned over, picked up the bundle, and deposited it in her arms.
Yue Ying felt a scream building inside of her.
"I told him I would watch the child long enough for him to train his troops." His eyes grew thoughtful. "Sometimes he seems to forget anything other than battle. It affects his personality if he doesn't get a chance to train every few days, believe me young lady, an angry Wei Yan is something you never want to see."
Yue Ying blinked, and tried to focus on keeping her own terror under control. Come on Ying. Don't scream. Relax. It's just a baby. You could beat it up in a second. Closing her eyes, she took several deep-calming breaths. Slowly her irregular heartbeat calmed down. She was finally able to focus her attention back on the general.
"Yes, I bet an angry Wei Yan is something I would never want to see."
"Of course not." The general's eyes wandered back to the arena. "Well look at that. It appears one of the newer troops just might become good in time."
Yue Ying watched as one lone footman held off four other members of what appeared to be his troop. He ducked a sword swing, but was almost impelled on a spear. "What are they doing? That last move could have seriously hurt him!"
"Wei Yan has them practicing against each other. First blood leaves to go back about their business. Don't agree with the boy, but he claims that since their enemies won't give them mercy on the battlefield, then their allies shouldn't in training. So far he's been lucky and no one has been hurt." Huang Zhong shrugged. "It's always one of the last thing he does. But that boy promised me that he would train his men today with the bow. He's not a bad shot himself, when I can get him to practice."
Wei Yan? A Boy? Yue Ying suppressed her snort. If Huang Zhong considered him a boy, she would hate to see what he considered a full-grown man. "I see." She feigned a trip. The general quickly reached out to stead her and she transplanted the child into his arms. "Oh thank you for holding him. I admit I feel a little weak." She leaned against the wooden fence, curling both hands around the topmost rail.
"Whelps aren't that bad, are they?"
"I beg your pardon?"
"You and the boy both seem to fear babies."
"Wei Yan's scared of children?" Her voice held just a tint of amusement.
Huang Zhong shrugged. "Many warriors fear children. I'm not that surprised that you do as well."
"But I'm a woman." Yue Ying gasped. Open mouth, insert foot.
The general gave a laugh so hearty that it captivated the troops attention. To a man, each one turned in their direction. Wei Yan, who had been walking around, advising the troops, and helping them with their various formations, glared at the older general, then stomped over.
"You stay. You quiet."
Huang Zhong wiped tears off his cheeks. "You would laugh too Boy if you heard what little Yue Ying just said." The man chuckled. "She said she was a woman!" He dug one elbow into the masked general's side. "As though we would doubt it or miss it!" The general ruffled the top of her hair, as though she were a favorite pet dog. "Such a pretty little thing."
"If I slice him up into little pieces will anyone care?" Yue Ying felt her hands begin to shake. She was not a pretty little thing.
Wei Yan turned to her. His eyes traveled across the length of her body. Goosebumps danced along her spine. The dark green intense orbs finally sought her own. For a moment she was breathless. A solemn expression on his face, the masked general winked at her. Before she could take a step back, he slapped the helmet on his mentor's head. It slid to the side, covering the older general's eyes.
"You offend. Apologize."
Huang Zhong continued to chuckle. "Child, if you had just heard the way that she-"
Wei Yan rolled his eyes towards the heaven. "Bet funny. But she mad. She saved you. Be nice."
Huang Zhong wiped away the last of the tears. "Of course of course." A sparkle of mischief entered his eyes. "But I thought that I was the one the ladies adored?" He gave Wei Yan a pat on the head then bowed to Yue Ying. "I am dreadfully sorry, my lady. I should know better than to upset a beautiful lady like yourself. Please accept my humble apologizes. As a token of my esteem, I invite you to dinner tonight." His eyes twinkling he patted her back. "Let me tell you about the time that Wei Yan almost drowned in five inches of water."
Wei Yan gave a soft growl.
"Oh come now child. I promise not to make you look too bad. And this way I can be properly introduced to the lady."
Seeing no other avenue she could take without insulting the man, Yue Ying accepted his arm and walked away with him. Surely someone as old as Huang Zhong would know how to cook?
**
He had known he would have nightmares. For hours he had avoided sleep, finally he lay on the mat. It was time to face the fear like a man instead of hiding. With a sigh he closed his eyes and was quickly engulfed right where he had left off before.
The auction was not going well. It looked as though he would start down the lonely road to working on a farm. Guan Yu was physically restraining Huang Zhong. Zhao Yun was talking quietly to Zhuge Liang who held tightly onto a large sack brimming with gold.
"Ten gold is the finally offer?" There was absolute silence.
Didn't he matter to anyone besides the old man?
"Going once."
He guessed not.
"Going twice."
No one would look him in the eye.
"Sol-"
A flash of light erupted from the center of the sky. All those gathered turned to watch the newest arrival. A woman emerged from a fetal position within, eerie luminous wings trailing silvery white feathers, which slowed her descent to the ground. She landed, one hand stretched in front of her. "Gentlemen. Stop." She turned a sweet smile on all of them. "Please allow me to converse with my husband before the finally bid."
"Darling, this is-"
The woman looped her arm through her husband's. Zhuge Liang's lip seemed to stick a mile out as he was pulled gently off to the side. A solid blue ball blazed into life, seeming to engulf them for long moments. When it finally disappeared the woman had a smirk plastered on her face, while her husband slammed the huge sack of gold down on the table. "Damn it. All the gold for that thing you call a man."
As the men stood around arguing over the last little details, the woman walked over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Come. You are free, Wei Yan."
The words rang in his head. Free. Could one such as he ever be free?
With a soft smile she held her arms out to him. The grim despair that had engulfed him earlier rolled away. Didn't he know this woman?
Her hands quickly untied the ropes that bound him. "Isn't that better? I think we should start with some willow bark tea. That should dull some of the pain. Then we can start with the bandages. I'm not sure how much I can fix though, but I'll give it a shot." The woman smiled again.
Wei Yan blinked, his brow furrowing in concentration. He knew that smiling face, but from where? In the dream it did not seem to matter so much. All he knew was that that if he could just be near the angelic vision than just maybe he would finally find peace.
Reaching out his hand for her, he heard the woman call his name. The first time it was soft and sweet, but the second time, her face twisted into one of horror. He awoke with a start.
"Wei Yan, didn't you hear me? We're being attacked! Get up!"
He blinked up at the woman. It was the angel from the dream. She didn't seem to be in an angelic mood though. Not to mention that unfortunately, if he remembered correctly the 'angel' had a husband who happened to hate every little thing about him. The thought of Zhuge Liang ever paying anything to buy him was hilarious.
"Come on get your armor -" The blanket that covered him was whipped off.
"I-I-I" Yue Ying looked helplessly around the room, "You're nude!"
He coupled a grunt with a shrug. How could someone possibly sleep in clothes?
Her face blushed an illuminating shade of red. Shaking her head, she shook an index finger in his face. "Get your armor on! The other side of camp is being attacked. I'm going to see who I can help now." With that she ran out of his tent.
Was that woman ever not in a rush? He had been hoping to get some time to talk to her all week, but her husband had always had her busy with preparations for the wedding. After all, didn't all women know secrets about babies? With a sigh he grabbed at his armor and started putting it on. Never mind. He could try talking to her later again. Battle was at hand! At least that was easy to understand. With any luck, he could find an interesting bone to add to his collection tonight.
**
Sima Yi looked around at the troops fighting his. Where was Mei Lin? So far she had not arrived. He rubbed at his head. He had told the woman to become a confidant of Zhuge Liang, and to stick close to him. Perhaps she had left with his entourage? With a sigh Sima Yi called out to his troops. "I want Liu Bei's son brought to me alive. Any who stand in our way shall be eliminated.
**
Yue Ying ran up just in time to have a soldier thrown at her, at least she thought it was a soldier. Throwing herself to the side she managed to escape slamming into the airborne body. Flipping to her feet, she quickly accessed the scene. She could just see Jiang Wei ringed in by around twenty soldiers. They each were taking turns jabbing in his direction, slowly wearing down his defenses, and considering the clothing he wore, only his abilities with his weapon were keeping the soldiers at bay. She really needed to give the generals of Shu a long talk in the near future about why one should wear clothing to sleep. She shoved the thought away. There would be time later to talk to the males about nudity. Right now Jiang Wei needed her help. As she watched, one soldier scored a long thin red scratch across his back.
"Bastards." She raced up to the back of one soldier and sliced at his back. He gave a cry, then fell to the ground.
"Yue Ying!" Jiang Wei slammed his trident up and through another opponent, and quickly turned in a circle, seeing who would attack next. "Get back!"
"I'm coming. Hold on."
"No!" Jiang Wei turned, and for a second they made eye contact. "They're after Liu Shan." He then turned and began slicing his way through the soldiers. "I will keep them from entering my tent to get the child! Go get help!"
The unspoken message in the brief eye contact was clear. Get Liu Shan from Wei Yan's tent, away from danger, and damn the consequences. With a nod, she turned and left the general, a small prayer for Jiang Wei's safety on her lips.
Gingivere: It finally let you submit. Yes, Lu Xun in a dress. He'll be in a the next chapter. Poor baby. The girls are gonna make him stay in the dress the whole time. Auctioning Wei Yan made sense at the time. Err or it did I swear! The baby is evil. Not to mention it grows up and is silly/stupid. Good luck with the whole art deal!
Girl-who-sings-the-blues: You like the pairing? YEA! That makes what? Three of us total. I'm afraid that as far as I know I'm the only one who hooks him up with Yue Ying. Every other story hooks him up with Zhu Rong. Then again I do have it in the works to hook him up with a new DW girl in each story so let us see who I fix him up with next.